May

Cut back the stems of Irish potatoes when they die but leave the tubers in the ground about two weeks to toughen the skin, carefully dig potatoes so you do not bruise the skin, wash off with the hose and dry in the sun before storing

Blossom end rot on tomatoes or a similar rot on peppers is caused by calcium deficiency or fluctuations in soil moisture, try to keep plants evenly moist, discard rotting fruit

Remove all diseased vegetable plants or infected leaves from the garden, prevent the spread of disease by watering plants carefully at the soil level

As basil plants begin to bloom, out plants back just above a pair of leaves to encourage growth

August

Direct sow seeds of cucumber, onion, pepper, southern peas, pumpkin, turnips, and watermelon, select varieties that mature early in order to produce before the temperature gets too cool, watch for pests and provide water when needed

Harvest Spring-planted garlic when the tops are yellow and withered, dig the bulbs and allow to dry in a well ventilated area out of direct sun

Set out transplants of cauliflower and broccoli

Test the garden soil before planting cool season crops, add any amendments several weeks before planting

Plant tomato suckers that were rooted earlier

September

Prepare for your garden by incorporating organic matter into the soil, try planting vegetables in an attractive design which will add interest to your landscape

Plant seeds for radishes, beets, carrots, leafy greens, green beans, and cucumbers early in the month, choose varieties that will mature in 7-8 weeks

Plant strawberries late this month through October, choose healthy and quality transplants

Set out onions, broccoli, cabbage, collards, Brussel sprouts, and cauliflower

When planting fast maturing vegetables, make several plantings at 10-14 day intervals to have a steady harvest

Check cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower for caterpillars

October

Continue planting seeds of radishes, carrots beets, and leafy greens

Plant garlic cloves now for a harvest next summer, place a clove in the soil so that the pointed end is 1/2 inch below the surface and space cloves 6-8 inches apart

Herbs to plant include parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme, rosemary will even withstand salt and wind of coastal landscapes